Holly MatkinChester, NY – Village of Chester Police Department (VCPD) Officer John Grzywaczewski died unexpectedly on May 9.
The 44-year-old officer passed away at his home while off-duty, according to his obituary.
Officer Grzywaczewski died of natural causes, VCPD Chief Timothy McGuire told News 12 Bronx.
His exact cause of death was not released.
“This is a very difficult time for my department,” Chief McGuire said in a statement to the news outlet. “The show of support from the Law Enforcement community, the Chester community and everyone that has been touched by Officer John ‘G13’ Grzywaczewski has been amazing.”
Officer Grzywaczewski served the New York State Police for two years prior to joining the VCPD 16 years ago, according to a fundraising page established to help his family in the wake of their loss.
The veteran officer was known by his friends and family as “Cap” or “Gryz,” the fundraising page read.
“Anywhere you went, someone knew the Cap,” the organizer wrote.
The fundraising effort has raised over $36,000 so far.
Officer Grzywaczewski leaves behind his wife, Amanda, as well as his father, sister, and nephew, according to his obituary.
“John had a tremendous sense of humor and loved to make people laugh,” the tribute read. “He worked hard to help everyone and was so generous with his time; he aimed to please always. John had endless energy and was full of life. He was an amazing husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend.”
Officer Grzywaczewski was laid to rest on May 20.
OFF-DUTY DEATH 💙🖤 The Village of #Chester is mourning the unexpected loss of 44-year-old Officer John Grzywaczewski, who died Monday from natural causes – according to the Department. A PBA fundraiser seeks to help his wife, Amanda – https://t.co/SiJDyKh7L3 pic.twitter.com/EJTUJ8s784
— Blaise Gomez (@BlaiseGomez12) May 12, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Village of Chester Police Department Officer John Grzywaczewski, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
